Local expat entrepreneur’s initiative brings new therapeutic arena to RMJ Horse Rescue

A community fundraiser spearheaded by expat entrepreneur Lahcene Merzoug and his partner Maria Moller has enabled RMJ Horse Rescue to launch its ‘Track to Trust’ therapeutic arena project, aimed at creating a dedicated space where retired racehorses can help children build trust and confidence.

The initiative saw donations matched by PressEnter Group, the Malta-based iGaming operator founded by Mr Merzoug, helping raise more than €20,000 for the NGO. RMJ Horse Rescue is Malta’s only licensed NGO dedicated to rehabilitating neglected horses and currently cares for over 100 animals through volunteer-led operations.

“All my companies regularly engage in CSR work, both locally and internationally. Yet, this island and its community have truly become our home since we moved here in 2013, and that’s why giving back, especially to a cause so close to our hearts, meant so much to us,” Lahcene Merzoug said.

“Though our CSR budgets were set for 2026, when a friend who volunteers at RMJ invited us to visit, Maria and I were extremely impressed by their work. On the spot, we decided to act; we created a fundraiser, and PressEnter Group promised to match every donation. In just four weeks, we raised over €10,000, and with PressEnter’s match, RMJ received more than €20,000.”

The fundraiser concluded on 24th May with a ceremony at RMJ Horse Rescue, where donors met rescued horses and witnessed the cheque handover. The event was attended by Ivan Filletti, CEO of GamingMalta, and Sharlo Camilleri.

The occasion marked both the success of the fundraising campaign and the beginning of works on the ‘Track to Trust’ arena.

“This is a perfect example of how the iGaming industry, through our strong ecosystem, contributes to meaningful CSR initiatives beyond the sector,” Ivan Filletti said.

“Hats off to Lahcene and Maria and the PressEnter Group for this worthy cause, and for championing it right here in Malta.”

Corinne Farrugia added: “The dream which was once only in our heads to bring retired race horses and children together can now finally be turned into reality.”

“Thanks to Lahcene and Maria, this milestone is nearer and we, as RMJ, can really start the works to have adequate facilities for the T2T project, Track to Trust, where retired racehorses find a new purpose while helping children build trust and confidence.”

Founded around 2016, RMJ Horse Rescue rehabilitates neglected horses and rehomes animals locally and internationally, operating entirely through volunteers and public support.

GamingMalta is an independent non-profit foundation established by the Government of Malta and the Malta Gaming Authority to support the growth of Malta’s gaming and interactive entertainment sector through policy initiatives, education and ecosystem development.